L.A. Auto Show 2015: 2017 Kia Sportage
What it is
This will be the fourth-generation Sportage, a compact crossover that is Kia’s longest-running U.S. nameplate.
Why it matters:
Although Sportage sales are up nearly 20% this year, Kia’s not likely to sell much more than 50,000 of the crossover, despite the compact crossover being in one of the hottest segments of the auto market. With the right vehicle, this could be a huge area of growth for the South Korean automaker.
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What's new:
The new Sportage features advanced driver assistance technologies, including rear cross traffic alerts, automatic emergency braking when sensors detect a potential collision with another vehicle or pedestrian, a lane-departure warning system and blind-spot detection. The 2017 model has significant suspension and steering improvements and now comes with an all-wheel-drive option. The car has more room for front and rear occupants and a larger cargo space.
The competition:
The Sportage plays in the compact crossover space dominated by the Honda CRV, Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4.
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The details:
Kia is bringing back the same engines in the current model but said they have been re-tuned to provide better fuel economy. However Kia didn’t provide mpg numbers. The 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder turbocharged engine that will be packed into the SX model makes 241 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The LX and EX trim levels use a normally aspirated 2.4-liter engine that produces 181 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque.
